PNP, Lazada ink pact vs. unauthorized sale of cops' uniforms

From the Philippine News Agency (Jun 19, 2023): PNP, Lazada ink pact vs. unauthorized sale of cops' uniforms (By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan)

(Photo courtesy of PNP Public Information Office)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) and online shopping giant Lazada Group on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to curb the illegal sale of its uniforms and insignias.

“At the heart of this agreement is our shared determination to combat the proliferation of unauthorized selling of counterfeit and substandard PNP uniforms, insignias, and accouterments,” PNP chief Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. said in a statement.

Acorda said the pact with Lazada would ensure that no online seller would be able to use the online platform in the sale of PNP uniforms and other items that are exclusively used by policemen.

“The signing of this MOU represents a significant step towards eradicating these illicit activities. This solidifies our commitment to safeguard the proper use of these items. Lazada, as one of Southeast Asia's leading e-commerce platforms, plays a vital role in providing an online marketplace for third-party sellers. their support and commitment to combatting the unauthorized selling of PNP items are commendable,” he added.

This came amid the reported use of PNP uniforms by criminal elements as they could be easily obtained despite the prohibition on its manufacture and sale to the public under Executive Order 297.

The EO regulates the manufacturing, sale, distribution, and use of PNP uniforms, insignias, and other accouterments.

The EO explicitly prohibits the use of PNP items by individuals who are not active and bona fide members of the PNP.

“We all understand the grave consequences that arise from the unauthorized manufacture, sale, and distribution of official PNP items. Not only does it compromise the integrity of our organization, but it also poses a serious threat to public safety and security,” said Acorda.

All PNP uniforms and accouterments are registered with the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines to safeguard the ownership of PNP on its patented designs to stop the illegal production of substandard and unauthorized uniforms by illegal manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and sellers which is prohibited under Republic Act 8293 or the Intellectual Property Code.

Pact on research, development

Meanwhile, Acorda also said the PNP signed ink between the Technological Institute of the Philippines (TIP) and the University of the Philippines (UP) as it underscores the recognition of research and development in continuous pursuit of excellence and it serves as a testament to PNP’s commitment to enhancing existing and future operations, with the ultimate goal of better serving and protecting the Filipino people.

Acorda thanked TIP for their collaboration in this initiative as one of the performing academic institutions in the country that highly recognizes the significance of research and development in improving current and future law enforcement operations.

“I am optimistic that this collaboration will undoubtedly yield fruitful results in enhancing our capabilities,” said Acorda.

He said the UP has signed the MOU with the PNP Directorate for Research and Development (DRD) to foster mutual understanding, particularly in the realm of intellectual property, and to develop activities in areas of mutual interest, based on equality and reciprocity.

The country’s top cop said the event marks the beginning of an alliance built on trust, shared objectives, and mutual respect let us seize this opportunity to leverage our collective expertise and resources, to forge new pathways for progress and innovation within the PNP.

“Together, we can develop cutting-edge solutions, enhance our operational efficiency, and foster a culture of integrity within our ranks. by joining forces with these highly regarded institutions and organizations, we reaffirm our commitment to the highest standards of professionalism and excellence,” Acorda stressed.

“Once again, I express my utmost gratitude to all senior executives of Lazada group, TIP and UP for their invaluable support in this undertaking. let us move forward hand in hand, driven by “Serbisyong Nagkakaisa” principle and a shared vision of a safer and more secure Philippines,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1203776